Overnight Superstar: 2017 Château De Bonnezeaux La Montagne

Posted by Ian McFadden

Almost overnight, Château De Bonnezeaux became one of the most exciting producers in the Loire.

Château de Bonnezeaux had not produced a single bottle of wine in over 30 years, but in 2012, these once abandoned vineyards began their slow road to recovery, led by winemaker Guyonne Saclier de la Bâtie. After much work, the first release was the 2016 vintage.

Bâtie apprenticed under the legendary Mark Angeli at Ferme de Sansonniere. Angeli pioneered the use of biodynamic farming in the region and was one of the first winemakers to eschew traditional wine laws and produce high-quality dry wine where only sweet winemaking was permitted. Following in Angeli’s footsteps, Bâtie implemented biodynamic farming at Château de Bonnezeaux and began producing dry wines of extraordinary quality.

It's not hard to understand how the wines gained a cult following. The wines are supremely compelling. They combine a rich, layered depth with incisiveness and a dark mineral backbone.

The 2017 La Montagne is strikingly pure and the earthy minerality is absolutely gripping. It offers up floral notes with citrus, spice, and a saline undercurrent.

Before wrapping up, I should mention that word is definitely out on Château De Bonnezeaux. The wines are simply too impressive not to gain swift notoriety. Quantities are in short supply and many people jump at any opportunity to purchase them.

To order, email offers@crushwineco.com or call the store at (212) 980-9463.

Ian McFadden


Director, Fine & Rare Wine
Crush Wine & Spirits